When you're looking to buy a used drone, it's important to be aware of the potential pitfalls. We at BuyBestQuadcopter have compiled a list of the 10 most important checks you need to do before bagging yourself a secondhand drone. By following these tips, you can avoid buying a damaged drone and end up with a quality used drone that will give you hours of enjoyment.
1. Check the drone's history
When you're looking at buying a used drone, it's important to check its history. You can do this by checking the serial number against the manufacturer's database. This will tell you if the drone has been involved in any accidents or incidents. Here is a link to DJI's serial number checker if you're buying a secondhand DJI drone.
2. Inspect the drone for damage
It's also important to inspect the drone for any physical damage. This includes checking for cracks, dents, or any other damage to the body or propellers. If there is any damage, it's important to find out how extensive it is and whether or not it can be repaired.
3. Test fly the drone
If possible, you'll want to test-fly the drone before you purchase it. This will give you a good idea of how well it flies and whether or not there are any issues with it. If you're not able to test fly the drone, then make sure that you ask about its flying characteristics before you buy it.
4. Check the drone's battery
The next thing you'll want to check is the drone's battery. Make sure that it is charged and in good condition. You'll also want to check how long the battery life is by testing the drone's flight time You can try to estimate how many charges it has left by comparing the flight time you achieve in your test flight versus how long the manufacturer claims the drone can fly. As batteries age, the drone's flight time will deteriorate.
5. Check the drone's motors
You'll also want to make sure that the drone's motors are in good working condition. To do this, you can check for any corrosion or damage to the motor mounts. You'll also want to make sure that the motors are spinning freely and are not making any strange noises.
6. Check the drone's stability
This check is only possible if you can test-fly the drone, which I highly recommend you do. Stability is important for all drones, but it's especially important if you're planning on using your drone for photography or videography. A stable drone will not only fly faster but will be less likely to shake or vibrate, which will result in better-quality photos and videos.
7. Check the controller
When you're looking at used drones, you'll also want to check the controller. Make sure that all of the buttons and controls are working properly. You should also test out the range of the controller to make sure that it is working properly.
8. Inspect the camera
If the drone has a camera, then you'll want to inspect it for any damage or defects. You should also test out the camera to make sure that it is taking clear pictures and videos.
9. Check for software updates
Before you purchase a used drone, you should check to see if there are any software updates available for it. These updates can fix bugs and improve performance, so it's always a good idea to have them installed before you use your drone.
10. Check the seller's reputation
When buying anything online, it's important to check the seller's reputation before making a purchase. You can do this by reading reviews from other buyers or by looking for complaints about the seller online. If you're unsure about a seller, then it's best to find someone else to buy from.
Bottom Line
Although it is important to do your research before purchasing a used drone, it's also important to keep in mind that not all drones are created equal. Some drones may have more problems than others, so it's important to be aware of what to look for when inspecting a used drone. By following the tips we've provided, you should be able to find a quality used drone that will give you hours of enjoyment.
